We depend on our vehicles to get us to and from places every day. When it comes to trucks, they often need to perform other jobs as well. It is essential to keep up with regular maintenance to make sure your truck keeps working for you, and while every make and model is different, there are some things that every truck needs to stay in good working order. Watch out for these signs that it’s time to take your truck in for service.
Fuel Mileage Is Going Down
If you drive the same route every day and notice that you need to fill up the gas tank more often than usual, your truck may need some maintenance. A reduction in fuel economy is often the result of low tire pressure. Or, one of the brake pads could be sticking. Your vehicle may also just need a tune-up. Make sure you always pay attention to the fuel mileage, so you know when it is not performing up to its regular standards.
Noisy Brakes
The brakes in your truck should not make any noise when you press down on the pedal. If you find that you have to press down harder than usual, or if you hear squeaking as the truck comes to a stop, then it is time to bring it to the dealer to have the brakes checked, All the parts of the braking system are wear-and-tear items that need maintenance and replacements on a regular basis.
Sluggish Acceleration
Since you drive your truck every day, you know how quickly it accelerates. If you notice that it feels sluggish when you press down on the gas — whether you are starting from a complete stop or accelerating at highway speed — it is time for service. Make sure to bring it in as soon as you can to have your dealer’s service department check it out. Regular maintenance will often prevent this problem.
Warning Lights
The warning lights on your dashboard are there for a reason, and you should not ignore them. If a light goes on, you can start by checking the owner’s manual. If it is an indicator of a problem, you should bring the truck to your dealership. Some warning lights indicate a minor issue such as low windshield wiper fluid or low tire pressure, but no matter what the light is for, never ignore it.
Regular Maintenance
Keep track of the maintenance on your truck, and keep it on a regular schedule for service. You’ll know it is time to go in when you hit a certain number of miles. Frequent oil changes, fluid checks, and tire rotations will keep you safe on the road. Make sure to have the tires rotated every time you bring in your vehicle for an oil change to keep them from wearing unevenly, and also have them aligned and balanced.
Regular maintenance and paying attention are key to keeping your truck in good shape.
Image by truckhardware via Flickr | CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original
Connect with us
Recent Blog Entries
- What Are the 2026 Jeep Wrangler Trim Levels and Paint Colors?
- Meet The First Fully Electric Trail-Rated SUV: The 2026 Jeep Recon
- Unapologetically Bold: The 2026 Dodge Durango Boasts Unmatched Power and Value
- Jeep Revives The Cherokee For A New Era of Hybrid Power
- Five Reasons Used Trucks Retain Value Better Than Other Vehicles